Dreamy Frozen S'mores Chilled Layers

This chilled s'mores creation takes the traditional campfire favorite and turns it into a cool, refreshing treat that's great for hot days or whenever you want a make-ahead dessert. With layers of chocolatey pudding, fluffy marshmallow mix, and crunchy graham crackers, you'll get all those classic s'mores tastes without needing to light a single match.

I whipped up these frozen s'mores during a scorching summer cookout when nobody wanted to stand around a hot fire pit. They were such a smash hit that my sister's kids now beg for them at every family event, no matter what time of year it is.

Ingredients

• Instant chocolate pudding: Forms the decadent chocolate component that stands in for a melted chocolate bar
• Whole milk: Creates just the right thickness for your pudding base
• Cool Whip: Makes both layers airy and smooth
• Graham crackers: Provide the traditional s'mores foundation and topping
• Cream cheese: Helps the marshmallow layer set properly and adds subtle tanginess
• Marshmallow creme: Brings that signature s'mores taste without any sticky fingers
• Salt: Cuts through sweetness and boosts all other flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the pan:

Set up your 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides. These extra bits work as handles for easy removal later. Push the paper firmly into all corners for smooth, even layers.

Mix the chocolate layer:

Combine the pudding mix, milk, and 1/2 cup Cool Whip until smooth and blended. Adding Cool Whip makes your pudding extra silky and lighter than regular pudding alone. Beat it well to get rid of any little lumps.

Create the first layer:

Lay half your graham crackers across the bottom of the dish. They should touch each other to form a solid foundation. Pour your chocolate mixture over them and spread it out evenly. Stick it in the fridge while you work on the next part.

Prepare the marshmallow layer:

Whip the cream cheese until it's light and fluffy before you mix in the marshmallow creme. This stops any cream cheese chunks from forming. Carefully fold in the leftover Cool Whip to keep it nice and airy. Don't forget that small pinch of salt—it really cuts through the sweetness.

Assemble and freeze:

Spread your marshmallow mix gently over the chilled chocolate, trying not to disturb what's underneath. Place the remaining graham crackers on top, pressing down lightly. Cover the whole thing tightly with foil and pop it in the freezer for at least 6 hours, but overnight works best.

Slice and serve:

Grab those parchment paper handles to lift everything out of the dish. Use a sharp knife to cut between the graham crackers, making neat squares. For prettier slices, wipe your knife clean between cuts.

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That marshmallow creme mixture really makes this dessert stand out. My little girl always wants to clean the bowl after we've made it, so I usually mix up a bit more than needed just for her. There's something magical about that creamy, puffy marshmallow blend that brings back good times around campfires with family.

Make It Your Own

What's great about these frozen s'mores is how easy they are to tweak. You might want to swap in chocolate graham crackers for regular ones to double up on chocolate flavor. Or you could mix tiny chocolate chips into the marshmallow section or add a caramel drizzle on top before freezing to create a caramel twist.

If you're making these for adults, try adding a bit of espresso powder to the chocolate pudding or a dash of bourbon in the marshmallow mix. These small changes can turn a kid-friendly treat into something fancy enough for your next dinner party.

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Serving Suggestions

These frozen treats taste amazing by themselves, but a few extras can make them even better. Try them with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or some warm chocolate sauce poured over top for a nice hot and cold contrast. When berries are in season, a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberry slices adds just enough tartness to balance out the sweetness.

When you're hosting, try stacking the squares in a pyramid on a serving plate and sprinkle with a little cocoa powder or crushed graham cracker bits. This makes an eye-catching dessert display that's super easy for guests to grab and enjoy.

Storage Tips

The instructions mention wrapping each square in plastic wrap for freezer storage, but I've found that putting them in single layers with parchment paper between them in an airtight container works just as well. This way uses less plastic and makes it simple to take out only what you want.

Let them sit out for about 15 minutes before you serve them from the freezer. They're best when the filling is still frozen but soft enough to bite through easily. If you like them a bit softer all the way through, leave them out for closer to 20 minutes at room temperature.

Common Questions

→ How should I store frozen s'mores?

Just wrap each one tightly in plastic and pop them in a container in your freezer. They'll stay good for up to two months.

→ Can I use a different type of graham cracker?

Sure thing, try chocolate graham crackers instead of regular ones if you want an extra chocolatey kick.

→ How long should frozen s'mores sit before serving?

Let them hang out at room temp for about 15 minutes if they're rock-solid from the freezer. This makes them easier to bite into.

→ What can I use as a substitute for Cool Whip?

Regular whipped cream works too, just make sure it's stiff enough to hold up when you layer and freeze it.

→ Can I make the dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely, that's the beauty of these frozen s'mores. Make them whenever you have time and grab them from the freezer within two months.